SRPD Detectives Arrest Suspect in Attempted Child Abduction Investigation 

Detectives assigned to the Santa Rosa Police Department's Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Team (DVSA) have arrested Ana Taylor in connection with an attempted child abduction that occurred in Santa Rosa on October 12, 2026.  

On October 12, 2026, at approximately 8:06 a.m., Santa Rosa Police received a report of a disturbing incident that had occurred earlier that morning near the 700 block of Seventh Street. A mother was walking with her young children, a toddler and a 10-month-old infant, when she was confronted by an unknown woman who aggressively approached the family and prevented them from leaving the area.  

During the encounter, the suspect repeatedly demanded access to the 10-month-old infant who was strapped into a stroller.  The suspect allegedly stated that she was going to take the child. The suspect then reached into the stroller, grabbed at the infant, and pulled on the stroller while continuing to make statements indicating an intent to take the baby.  

The mother called out for help, and a passing motorist stopped to assist. The suspect fled the area before officers arrived. Neither child suffered physical injury; however, the incident was traumatic for the family. 

Officers conducted an extensive search of the area for witnesses, surveillance video, and additional leads.  

On October 13, following a comprehensive investigation, detectives located a photo of a person of interest that was captured by an area security camera following the original incident, and immediately disseminated it to SRPD patrol officers. To protect the integrity of the investigation and avoid prematurely identifying or publicly associating an individual with criminal activity, SRPD did not publicly release the photograph as detectives were attempting to locate additional information or evidence that established a sufficient basis to identify the person as a suspect.   

At approximately 1:10 p.m. this afternoon, an officer with the SRPD Downtown Enforcement Team contacted a woman matching the photograph in the area of Second Street and D Street. Detectives responded and continued their investigation. Through this continued investigation, they were able to determine Taylor was the suspect in the attempted kidnapping the day prior. 

Taylor was arrested and booked into Sonoma County Main Adult Detention Facility for the following offenses: 

• 664/207(a) PC – Attempted kidnapping 
• 273a(a) PC – Child endangerment  
• 166(a)(4) PC –Pretrial Release Violation 

During the investigation, it was learned that after the above incident, the same suspect approached a woman walking her dog on Slater Street. Unprovoked, Taylor challenged the woman and followed her.  

Detectives are continuing to investigate this incident, and anyone with additional information related to this incident is encouraged to contact the SRPD DVSA Team at 707-543-3595. 

Chief John Cregan said, “This was a deeply troubling incident that understandably caused significant fear and emotional trauma for the victim and her family. I reached out to the victim and her husband to express my concern that this incident occurred in our city.  While no physical injuries were reported, the impact of an attempted abduction involving a young child can be profound and lasting. The Santa Rosa Police Department remains committed to thoroughly investigating crimes of this nature, holding offenders accountable, and working proactively with our community partners to ensure Downtown Santa Rosa continues to be a safe, welcoming, and vibrant place for residents, businesses, and visitors alike.”  

Media inquiries can be directed to Sgt. Patricia Seffens, Public Information Officer, at 707-543-3634 or pseffens@srcity.org.